What are the possible side effects of ibrutinib/Eco?

Ibrutinib (Ibrutinib) is a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor that is widely used in the targeted therapy of hematological tumors such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM). As the first-generation BTK inhibitor, it opens a new chapter in the precise treatment of B-cell malignant diseases. However, like all targeted drugs, ibrutinib also brings a series of side effects, and the tolerance of different patients varies greatly.

One of the common side effects is a tendency to bleed. SinceBTK plays a role in the platelet activation process, the inhibitory effect of ibrutinib may affect normal coagulation function, manifesting as mild nosebleeds, skin ecchymoses, and in severe cases, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or intracranial bleeding. Therefore, careful trade-offs must be made in patients requiring combination anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents.

Cardiotoxicity is another side effect of concern with ibrutinib, particularly the higher incidence of atrial fibrillation. Some patients may develop arrhythmia, palpitations or even heart failure during long-term medication, and require regular electrocardiogram monitoring and cardiac function assessment. In addition, ibrutinib may cause an increase in blood pressure, a risk that gradually accumulates in patients who take the drug for a long time.

Adverse reactions of the digestive system are also relatively common, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, etc. Most of them are mild to moderate and can be alleviated by adjusting diet and symptomatic treatment. Some patients may develop oral ulcers and loss of appetite, which will have a certain impact on their quality of life.

The increased risk of infection is also a problem that needs attention with ibrutinib. Because it acts on theB cell signaling pathway, long-term suppression may lead to a decline in immune function, making patients more susceptible to respiratory, urinary tract or fungal infections. Therefore, doctors often recommend that patients be monitored for infection during treatment and given preventive treatment when necessary.

Reference materials:https://www.imbruvica.com/